Written by Aarohi
The Omonma Bon-Dance Festival returns this summer for its 40th anniversary, bringing traditional Japanese folk dance, contemporary art, food stalls, workshops, and live performances to the Tokyo University of the Arts Toride Campus in Ibaraki Prefecture.
What to expect
The day-long festival will feature food stalls, hands-on workshops, and a performance stage set up on a dekotora, a brightly decorated Japanese truck often covered with lights, painted panels, and bold designs. The stage program will range from traditional dance to electronic music.
Another highlight is “Yagi no Me,” or “Goat’s Eye,” a Tokyo Geidai community project centered on the goats that live on the Toride Campus. You’ll get to interact with the animals and take part in simple care activities. The workshop is scheduled to begin around 4 p.m. and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring gloves and wear clothes that you do not mind getting dirty.
At the center of the festival is Bon Odori, a traditional summer dance performed during the Bon season, when families in Japan honor the spirits of their ancestors. Everyone is welcome — and encouraged — to join. The dancing will begin at 6 p.m.
The event will be hosted in both Japanese and English. Through collaborating with the local community, the organizers aim to preserve local folk traditions threatened by depopulation.
Schedule 2026
In case of bad weather, the event will be postponed to Sunday, July 19.
How to get there
The venue is approximately 40 minutes from Ueno Station via JR Toride Station. From JR Toride Station, take the Otone Kōtsu bus (bound for Tokyo Geidai-mae) for about 5 minutes. On-site parking is available.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.
